Ruairí Ó Murchú
Question:58. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Justice if she will provide an update on the Garda operational model for County Louth; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [55083/23]
View answerTuesday, 12 December 2023
Questions (58)
Written answers
As the Deputy will be aware, the Garda Operating Model has been designed to reflect and strengthen the organisation to face the challenges of modern day policing more consistently around the country by enabling specialisation in the delivery of key services and freeing up more Gardaí to focus on front line policing.
It will particularly enhance the investigation of crime through the delivery of a greater range of specialised services in local areas such as the investigation of sexual crime, domestic violence, cyber-crime, and economic crime.
The development and introduction of the Operating Model was a recommendation from both the Garda Inspectorate and the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland (CoFPI) and is a key element of delivering its implementation plan, ‘A Policing Service for the Future’.
The Operating Model introduces major changes to the structures of An Garda Síochána ensuring more front-line Gardaí, increased Garda visibility, and a wider range of policing services for people in their local area.
I am informed that An Garda Síochána's roll-out of the Model is progressing well, with 10 of 21 divisions now fully functioning under the Operating Model.
As the Deputy will be aware, the restructured Cavan/Monaghan/Louth Division went live on 3 December 2023.
The model, coupled with some realignment of responsibilities, will help to deliver a consistent, community-focused policing service.
I think most people would agree that community policing has been at the heart of An Garda Síochána since its founding over 100 years ago, and I can assure the Deputy that the Government is committed to maintaining that tradition, so that all communities feel safe and are safe.